India

India is the third-largest energy consumer globally, and its total energy demand is projected to increase by nearly 35% by 2035. Rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and rising incomes are driving this surge. Electricity demand alone is expected to almost double by 2040, with peak demand reaching 335 GW by 2030.  Without aggressive efficiency measures, this growth will strain the grid, increase costs, and lock in fossil fuel dependency.

India has pledged to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. Energy efficiency is emerging as the single largest contributor to these targets, capable of delivering over 40% of the desired emissions reductions globally over the next 20 years. Without efficiency, India would need far more renewable capacity and carbon capture to stay on track—at much higher costs.

India imports over 85% of its crude oil and 50% of its natural gas, making it vulnerable to global price shocks and supply disruptions. By reducing overall energy demand through efficiency, India can lower its import dependence, improve its trade balance, and enhance energy security. This is critical for a country that spends billions annually on energy imports.

Energy efficiency is often called the “first fuel” delivering the most cost-effective way to meet the rapidly growing energy needs. Energy Efficiency has already delivered total savings of approximately USD 23 billion in 2022-23 alone. For consumers, efficiency measures can cut energy bills by 20–30%, freeing up household income and improving competitiveness for businesses.